The Falcons swapped out starting running back Devonta Freeman for former Georgia star Todd Gurley during the offseason. Assuming he stays healthy, Gurley will be the lead back in 2020, but who will be the team’s No. 2 RB?
Both backups Ito Smith and Brian Hill have shown flashes of potential over their short careers. According to head coach Dan Quinn, though, the two backs will share the No. 2 role this season, as reported by Kelsey Conway.
Smith, 24, was a fourth-round pick by Atlanta in 2018. He’s played in just 21 games over two seasons, rushing for 421 yards (3.8 yards per carry) and five touchdowns, with 38 catches for 239 receiving yards.
Hill, also 24, has rushed for 517 yards on 4.7 yards per attempt over his three-year NFL career. He’s less of a receiving threat — 13 catches for 114 career receiving yards — but does bring some special teams versatility as a return man.
Don’t forget about 2019 fifth-round pick Qadree Ollison, either. The rookie finished with four rushing touchdowns last season.
Atlanta also announced on Friday that the team had released RB Craig Reynolds.
